Final answer:
The nurse should prioritize monitoring for postpartum hemorrhage after a cesarean delivery due to the risk of uterine atony, which is a more immediate concern compared to other potential complications.
Step-by-step explanation:
After a cesarean delivery, the nurse places the highest priority on monitoring the client for the potential complication of postpartum hemorrhage. This is because fragments of the placenta left in the uterus can prevent the uterus from contracting properly, leading to significant bleeding. Monitoring for uterine atony, a condition where the uterus does not contract effectively after delivery, is crucial since it can lead to postpartum hemorrhage. This is considered a more immediate concern compared to other complications such as incisional infection or breast engorgement. It is also important for the obstetrician to examine the expelled placenta and fetal membranes to ensure that they are intact. Additionally, uterine contractions assist in the process of involution, which helps the uterus to return to its pre-pregnancy size and facilitates the repositioning of abdominal organs.